Title: Ships in the Field

Author: Susanne Gervay

Illustrator: Anna Pignataro

Reviewer: Emily Basham

“Ma used to be a teacher before she came here. Now she makes dresses all day long. Pa used to be a farmer before he came here. Now he works at the car factory all day long”. (p. 5-6.)

Ships in the Field details one family’s experience of migration as seen through the eyes of a child, addressing the struggles and hardships that accompany living in a new and foreign country. Despite the trepidatious past and the unknown future ahead, this family is a happy one-though a new family addition would make our child narrator even more joyous.

Inspired by both the author and illustrator’s family immigration journey, this heartfelt picture book captures the realities of war in a real and genuine way. Whilst it includes more mature themes of war, immigrants, and other social justice issues, the subtle use of humour and delicate artwork sparks a feeling of hope for both the characters, and the reader.

This book has the simplicity to cater to Years K-2, whilst having the depth and underlying themes to address a more mature age group. Similar books include ‘My Two Blankets’, ‘The Day War Came’